International journal of surgery
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Review Meta Analysis
Chewing gum and postoperative ileus in adults: a systematic literature review and meta-analysis.
Post-operative ileus (POI) is a major problem following elective abdominal surgery. Several studies have been published investigating the use of chewing gum to reduce POI. These studies however, have produced variable results. Thus, there is currently no consensus on whether chewing gum should be widely instituted as a means to help reduce POI. ⋯ Chewing gum offers only a small benefit in reducing time to flatus and time to passage of bowel motion following abdominal surgery. This benefit is of limited clinical significance. Further studies should be conducted in a modern peri-operative care environment.